The capital of the Netherlands is a wonderful city that is visited by millions of tourists every year. But many of them end up here for 1-2 days, following the journey from one European country to another. And, of course, every guest does not want to waste time in vain. What to see on your own in Amsterdam in 1 day? Let's talk about this in more detail.
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It really is, in a way, the "heart of Amsterdam". After all, the Central Station receives the main flow of tourists. Up to 250 thousand passengers arrive here annually. The station began to work in 1889, and many tourists perceive it not only as the starting or ending point of their journey, but also examine the old building with curiosity.
Today, from the Central Station on a high-speed train, you can go to a number of major cities in European countries, and the journey will take a few hours, which is very convenient. There is also a bus station here. Flights departing from here connect Amsterdam with other cities in Holland. And, finally, ships that follow the large city canals also moor at the Central Station.
Public library
If you find yourself in Amsterdam for 1 day, you are unlikely to linger in the library as a reader. Still, it's worth coming here. The construction of the magnificent complex cost the state 80 million euros. The 10-story building now houses the largest library in Europe, and many Russians can only dream of such amenities.
Of the 1,200 reading places, half are equipped with computers connected to the Internet. Tourists can also visit the Library Museum and go up to the 7th floor. Here is the self-service restaurant V&D La Place, the terrace of which is an excellent observation deck. Here you can drink coffee - after all, the forces will still come in handy, there is a whole journey ahead, and admire the opening view of the city. The library is open seven days a week from 10 am to 10 pm.
NEMO Museum
Actually, this is the Museum of Science - in the full sense of the word. In appearance, it very much resembles a green ship. Since you can stay here for a very long time, it is worth noting that the cafes are located on the 1st, 2nd and 5th floors. The 1st also sells souvenirs that you can't buy anywhere else. They repeat the layouts presented in the museum.
The first floor is dedicated to the structure of DNA and various chain reactions, here you can also watch a half-hour show on this topic. The ball factory is located on the second floor. Children are especially amused by the conveyor through which their stream flows. Also, there are numerous exhibitions that tell about the water cycle in nature, the work of electricity, etc. Those who wish can watch popular science films.
The third floor is a huge laboratory. You can see how scientific experiments are carried out and even take part in this process. The fourth floor is dedicated to the human brain. Here they give lectures and conduct various kinds of tests that allow you to evaluate the work of the brain and sensory organs. The fifth floor is a place where you can have a bite to eat, look at the city from the observation deck, and little tourists will spend time in the playroom with pleasure.
Church of St. Nicholas
This ancient church is especially loved by the townspeople, because St. Nicholas is the patron saint of the city. In addition, this is a church, truly "suffered." During the Reformation, there could be no question of building new Catholic churches - and the old ones were banned. The Church of St. Nicholas, the construction of which began in 1884, became the "first sign" that announced the softening of the persecution of the Catholic faith. It turned out to be very beautiful, embodied two main styles - neo-baroque and neo-renaissance.
Two high towers crowning the facade, a bas-relief depicting the Savior surrounded by disciples, a sculpture of St. Nicholas - in a word, it is difficult to take your eyes off the basilica. She has one more advantage: excellent acoustics. When the ancient organ sounds, numerous guests gather in the basilica to enjoy the music.
Exchange Berlage
The author of the architectural project is Hendrik Petrus Berlage, and his name is now inextricably linked with his most famous brainchild. The apparent simplicity - this style is called "rationalism" - is deceptive. It is worth paying attention to the decorative clock tower, as well as the statues of the heroes of Holland surrounding the stock exchange.
This is the knight Geisbrecht, whose name is covered with legends, Kun Jan Pietersoon - thanks to him, Holland began to dominate Indonesia, and the famous philosopher Hugo Grotius. At the end of the 20th century, the stock exchange ceased to exist within the walls of this building. Now here you can visit a museum that tells how it functioned. Visit the huge Main Hall - in 2002, the king of the Netherlands got married here. Visit exhibitions of paintings, including paintings by the famous Van Gogh. There is also one of the best restaurants in the city.
Dam Square
No, the name of the square has nothing to do with the fair sex. She received this name because in the 13th century a dam was built here. Over time, the dam became so wide that a square arose here, and a city grew around it. Today, the size of the square is 200 x 100 m. If you find yourself here, then other attractions will be within walking distance. Among them is the Red Light District. The Royal Palace, the New Church, the Wax Museum overlook the square itself. Fans of shopping will find here a wonderful Bienkorf department store. There are always a lot of tourists in Dam Square, so if you are looking for compatriots, you will definitely find them here.
Royal Palace
Previously, the palace was the town hall, now it is the royal residence. The ancient building, built in the middle of the 17th century, bears the features of ancient Roman architecture, this style is called "Dutch classicism". Outside - the severity of classical lines, and inside - richly decorated interiors - all this also characterizes the Royal Palace. It rests on a powerful foundation made of thousands of wooden piles, and the sandstone from which the walls are built only emphasizes the old building with its dark shade. The palace is crowned with a weather vane, to which the master gave the shape of a ship.
The main room of the town hall - the Central Hall - has impressive dimensions, and its height reaches almost 30 m. And, as if emphasizing the power of the monarch, on the floor, under his feet - there are images of the two hemispheres of the Earth. Since 1808, the palace is no longer used as a town hall. At first it belonged to Louis Bonaparte, then to the Royal House of Orange, and only in the 30s of the 20th century, it went to the state. Tourists are attracted by the opportunity to see the art gallery located in the palace. Here are collected the works of famous artists, including Rembrandt.
new church
In fact, it is not so new, except perhaps in comparison with other attractions. The Calvinist church was built in the 15th century. It is located next to the Royal Palace. Permission for its construction was given after the church of St. Nicholas was too small for the growing city.
Initially, the New Church was dedicated to two saints - Mary and Catherine. The Middle Ages is an era when fires often occurred in cities. The Church of Saints Mary and Catherine did not escape them either. It burned three times - twice in the 15th century, and once in the middle of the 17th. After that, it was rebuilt, adding Gothic elements. The last reconstruction was carried out in the middle of the 20th century.
More than once the New Church was used for inaugurations and weddings of royalty. Many famous people of the city are also buried here. Today, services are not held in the church, but here you can see various exhibitions, listen to organ music concerts.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
Everyone has heard of this museum. It is a branch of the London Museum of the same name. The building on Dam Square was located in 1991. Here you can see with your own eyes famous artists - artists, musicians, singers. As well as famous political figures. New figures appear here regularly. Today's viewer has the opportunity to see Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and other public idols. The museum is open daily.
flower market
You will not see such a market anywhere else - it is the only one in the world. This is perhaps the main attraction of the city. The thing is, it's floating. As early as the 17th century, merchants sailed boats on the canals and sold flowers. After the city moat was filled in at the end of the 19th century, the market moved to the place where it is still located.
There are barges along the city embankment, and there are shops selling flowers in them. Here you can buy both luxurious bouquets and planting material. For example, tulip bulbs are sold both individually and by weight at a reasonable price. Tourists come to this market, often just to admire it, but many also make purchases. It is no coincidence that in Russia the very first, bright red tulips are called "Dutch".
Leidseplein
If you are a nightlife lover, then this is the place for you. Until the early morning fun is in full swing at the Leidseplein. Entertainment here is for every taste. There are theaters and cinemas, clubs, cafes, shops. Not to mention the street performers. here you will meet musicians and jugglers, magicians and fakirs. If you yourself have some talents, you can also perform. Grateful spectators are provided. As well as an open-air concert venue. They also sell amazingly delicious coffee. You can enjoy it in one of the cafes, or buy ground and take it with you.
Canal Cruise
Many tourists admit that the canal cruise was the highlight of their trip. Such excursions do not last long - an hour and a half. You can start your acquaintance with the capital of the Netherlands with such a trip, or end your trip with it. Often, listening to the guide's story, tourists pay attention to some sights, and then visit them on their own. In total, about two hundred types of boats and ships ply through the canals of the city. You can book a romantic trip "with lunch" or "with dinner", a thematic tour, for example, to places associated with the name of Van Gogh. An hour trip costs about 15-16 euros.
Red light district
The red light district is known far beyond the borders of the country. Amsterdam is one of the few cities in Europe where the hottest entertainments are legalized. However, this was not always the case. In the 16th century, they fought against prostitution in the country, temporarily turned a blind eye to it in the 19th century, in the 20th - brothels again switched to an illegal position. And only in 1988, three years after the first international congress of ladies of easy virtue, prostitution in the Netherlands was recognized as an ordinary profession.
Today, the Red Light District is a city in miniature. It includes about two dozen streets. It has its own shops, cafes and even museums. About a thousand priestesses and priests of love work here. It is allowed to enter the panel from the age of 21. Special showcases attract guests, behind which you can see girls or boys. If the place is free - through the window you will see everything that is being done in the room. Has a client arrived? The curtain falls.
You can find entertainment in the Red Light District during the day, but still the main life here begins at 23:00. Prices are quite affordable - about 50 euros per visit. Homosexuals will also find partners here. But still, most of the tourists come here not for carnal pleasures, but just to stare.
How to get from the airport to the center
And one more question that worries the vast majority of tourists - how to get to the center from the airport? This can be done in several ways. But, if you arrive on your own, and no one will meet you, you should familiarize yourself with the city map in advance in order to know exactly where your hotel is located.
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Amsterdam is an unusual city that combines different sides. This is an open-air museum with ancient buildings dating back several hundred years, and a city of artists and numerous museums dedicated to them, a city of idyllic canals and a city of flowers, primarily tulips. In a word, Amsterdam is surprisingly diverse, so that tourists who come here have places to go and things to see.
Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands, as well as one of the most important ports on the European continent. Amsterdam is located in the north-west of the country at the mouth of the Amstel River on the coast of the artificial lake IJsselmeer, separated from the North Sea by a dam. It is to her that the city owes its existence, because Amsterdam is located below sea level by as much as 2 meters.
Amsterdam is the capital and largest city of the Netherlands
The population of the city itself is a little over 800 thousand people, but together with the suburbs it grows to 2.3 million people, and together with neighboring cities it forms the Randstad agglomeration (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht), which is 6- and in Europe. Amsterdam is a highly urbanized city, with a territory of 219 km 2, the population density reaches 4768 people per km 2.
Amsterdam is a relatively young city for Europe. It was founded in 1300 and originates from a small fishing village founded near a dam built in the 13th century. It was the favorable location of Amsterdam that allowed him to gradually take a leading position in port transportation, first in the North and then in the Baltic Sea. Even greater success came to the city at the end of the 16th century, when the United Provinces of the Netherlands won independence from Spain. Antwerp, Amsterdam's main competitor, remained under the dominion of the Spaniards, and was also devastated by the Spanish troops during the uprising.
Amsterdam is a relatively young city for Europe
The "golden age" of Amsterdam and all of the Netherlands began in the 17th century. The capture of colonies, the development of capitalism and trade, as well as the ever-increasing status of the main port of Europe, made Amsterdam one of the richest and most developed cities on the continent. The same century saw the rise of the culture of the Netherlands, which today is reflected in numerous museums. However, despite these achievements, Amsterdam was not the capital of the country, although it remained its largest city.
Subsequent centuries somewhat reduced the role of Amsterdam in international trade, but in the Netherlands itself its role remained unshakable. Finally, at the very end of the 18th century, during the era of the Napoleonic Wars, Amsterdam became the capital of the country, which remains to this day.
How to get to Amsterdam
The easiest way to get to Amsterdam from Russia is by plane. The city is connected by regular flights to Moscow and St. Petersburg. Several daily flights depart from the capital of Russia to Amsterdam, the travel time is 3 hours 35 minutes, the ticket price is from 13.9 thousand rubles. From the northern capital to Amsterdam, the flight lasts less (2 hours 55 minutes), but the cost of tickets is more - at least 18.4 thousand rubles. If you wish, you can try to save money and buy tickets for low-cost airlines with connections in Riga, Berlin or Budapest.
Flights from Russia are accepted by the Schiphol city airport, located 15 km from the center of Amsterdam. You can get to the city itself by train (from 4 euros), bus (4-5 euros) or taxi (50 euros).
The easiest way to get to Amsterdam from Russia is by plane
Until recently, the Russians had the opportunity to get to Amsterdam on the RZD direct carriage, but at the moment this route has been canceled. So travelers who prefer rail transport will have to change in one of the European cities, for example, Berlin.
Those wishing to get to Amsterdam by bus can do this from Moscow or St. Petersburg. From the capital of Russia, the trip will take almost 48 hours, the ticket price is from 7.5 thousand rubles. From St. Petersburg, the duration of the trip and ticket prices are similar.
Well, the last way to get to the capital of the Netherlands is to use a private car. You will have to spend at least 25-26 hours behind the wheel, so it will not be possible to cover a distance of almost 2.5 thousand kilometers in one sitting. The way to Holland lies through Belarus, Poland and Germany. Residents of St. Petersburg can use an alternative route through Finland and a ferry to German Bremen.
The city's attractions
The sights of Amsterdam are a unique combination of canals, old mass buildings with individual outstanding buildings and numerous museums. Most of them are devoted to the arts, in which the Dutch and neighboring Flemings have historically excelled.
Canals of Amsterdam
The canals of Amsterdam are the most memorable feature of the city, which immediately catches the eye of visitors. In total, there are several hundred canals and 1.5 thousand bridges in Amsterdam, so Amsterdam rightfully bears the title of "Venice of the North". The main canals completely encircle the Old Town of Amsterdam in four semicircles. The canal system of Amsterdam is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The canals of Amsterdam are the most memorable feature of the city, which immediately catches the eye of visitors.
The main canals of the Old City were built several centuries ago - in the Middle Ages or the "golden age" of the Netherlands.
- The Singel Canal is the oldest in Amsterdam, completed in 1428. Initially, it was a city moat and protected Amsterdam from the outside world. However, due to the rapid growth of Amsterdam, he was inside the city walls. Among its attractions are the narrowest house in the world (1 meter wide), several ancient churches and the buildings of the 17th-18th centuries that are classic for the Netherlands.
- Herengracht is the second oldest canal in the city, built in the first half of the 17th century. The banks of the canal are built up with small two- and three-story mansions of the 17th century. The most fashionable part of the coast is called the Golden Bend.
- The Keizersgracht canal is the city's widest canal. The development of its banks lasted several centuries, so here you can find buildings of various styles of architecture, and not just classic Dutch houses.
- The Prinsengracht is the city's longest canal, named after Prince William of Orange.
All the canals of Amsterdam, located in the Old Town, were massively built up in past centuries. So an ordinary walk along their shores, or, even more so, a trip on the water in a boat or boat can bring great aesthetic pleasure.
Dam Square and the Royal Palace
Dam Square is the main one in the whole city, so it often becomes a venue for various events. The square owes its status to several outstanding architectural monuments located on it, including the Royal Palace.
In Dutch, "Dam" simply means "dam". It was she, built in the XIII century, that gave rise to the city itself. Its strengthening made it possible to arrange a fairly large area on the land reclaimed from the water. Its size is small - 100 by 200 meters, but in the old town with its narrow streets it is the largest in area.
The main building of the square was made in the XVII century. Unfortunately, several outstanding buildings have not survived to this day - the Chamber of Weights and Measures was demolished by order of Napoleon at the very end of the 18th century, and already in the 20th century the building of the Old Exchange was demolished. But what is now left of the old buildings will not disappoint. The ensemble of the square is formed by the Nieuwekerk church (XIV-XV centuries), the building of the Madame Tussauds Museum and the National Monument dedicated to the victims of World War II. But the main building of the square is the Royal Palace.
Dam Square is the main one in the whole city, so it often becomes a venue for various events.
After gaining independence from Spain, the Netherlands remained a republic for a long time. When, at the beginning of the 19th century, the Netherlands was nevertheless transformed into a monarchy, and the Orange dynasty came to power, the kings were given one of the best buildings in the city, previously occupied by the town hall. It was erected in 1665 by architect J. Van Kampen. The classical architecture of Rome was chosen as a model. So the style of this building is Dutch neoclassicism, quite rare for Amsterdam.
Now the building has been bought out by the state, so it is open to everyone, however, the royal family did not remain offended - royal receptions are held here. The luxurious appearance of the Royal Palace is fully consistent with its interiors. Three floors of exquisite and magnificent halls, the walls of which are decorated with paintings by Dutch masters of painting, decorations and decorations dedicated to the Age of Discovery, marble, gold and stucco - a walk inside the palace will not disappoint anyone.
The Royal Palace is located at Dam Square, the nearest metro station bears the same name. Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 (Tuesday - Sunday). On Mondays and days of official receptions, the palace is closed to the public. Ticket price: 10 euros (adult ticket), 9 euros (students), children under 18 years old - free of charge.
Keukenhof park
If Amsterdam is the "Venice of the North", then Holland is often called the "Land of Tulips". And the personification of this name may be the Keukenhof National Park, located in the suburbs of Amsterdam. It is also called the Royal Park, "Tulip Park" and "Garden of Europe".
Keukenhof is located in the small town of Lisse, halfway between Amsterdam and The Hague. Historically, it was the land of the Countess of Gennegau - greens and grass were grown here for the count's kitchen, which is why the land was called Keukenhof, which literally means "Kitchen Yard". In the 19th century, a classic landscape park was laid here, but Keukenhof took its modern look already in 1949, when flower growers decided to organize an amusement flower park here.
Keukenhof is located in the small town of Lisse, halfway between Amsterdam and The Hague.
Now Keukenhof is a real "kingdom" of flowers. About 7 million flowers are grown on the territory of 32 hectares, of which 4.5 million are occupied by the national flowers of Holland - more than 100 varieties of tulips. Hyacinths, crocuses, daffodils and other flowers also grow here. A fantastic picture of fields dotted with flowers leaves an indelible impression on the guests of the park.
Unfortunately, you can get to Keukenhof only for 2 months - from about the 20th of March to the 20th of May. It was then that the flowering fields turn Keukenhof into a real Garden of Eden. Park address: Lisse, Stationsweg 166A. You can get to the park by train, getting off at the Leiden station, and then get to Lisse by bus. Opening hours: 08:00 - 19:30. Ticket price: 18 euros.
Zaanse Schans
Another symbol of Holland is the windmill. In many ways, it was to this structure that the peasants of Holland owed their prosperity, since there was never a shortage of wind in the Netherlands. You can admire windmills, along with other examples of wooden architecture, at the Zaanse Schans open-air museum in the suburbs of Amsterdam.
Another symbol of Holland is the windmill.
In addition to windmills, tourists who come to the Zaanse Schans can get acquainted with the classic farms where Dutch cheese is made, the traditional houses of Dutch peasants, as well as folk crafts, for example, with the manufacture of wooden clogs.
You can get to Zaanse Schans by bus (No. 391) or by train (direction to Alkmaar, exit at Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station). Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Ticket price: 10 euros (adult), 6 euros (children).
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the main museum in Amsterdam and all of the Netherlands, one of the Top 20 most popular art museums in the world. It was founded by Louis Bonaparte (Napoleon's brother) in 1800, that is, when the Netherlands was conquered by revolutionary France.
The Rijksmuseum is the main museum of Amsterdam and all of the Netherlands, one of the Top 20 most popular art museums in the world.
The basis of the expositions of this museum are the works of the great Dutch masters of the XVI-XVII centuries: Rembrandt, Vermeer, de Hooch, van Ruysdael, van Leyden and many other artists. There was a place here for the so-called "little Dutch" and representatives of the national school of painting of subsequent centuries, for example. Trost. But the main asset of the museum is the great painting by Rembrandt "The Night Watch", which belongs directly to the city authorities.
And although the Rijksmuseum is primarily dedicated to the national painting of the Netherlands, there was a place in this museum for other national schools: the Flemings (van Dyck, Rubens), the Italians (Tintoretto, Veronese, di Cosimo) and the Spaniards (El Greco, Goya). So a visit to this museum will not disappoint either those who are primarily interested in big names, or those who are interested in the works of little-known masters outside the Netherlands.
Museum address: st. Museumstraat, 1. Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00. Ticket price - 17.5 euros, for persons under 19 years old - free of charge.
Van Gogh Museum
The traditions of national painting in the Netherlands are by no means exhausted by the classical artists of the Golden Age. To some extent, the old masters were able to surpass the artist, whose fame came to him after his death. Van Gogh became one of the major artists of the 19th century, so the dedication of a separate museum in Amsterdam to him is not at all surprising.
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam has the world's largest collection of works by the mad genius, including paintings recognized as masterpieces: "The Potato Eaters", "Sunflowers", "Almond Blossoms", "Wheat Field with Crows", "Bedroom in Arles" , Self-portrait (1887), "Irises" (1890). In total, the Amsterdam Museum stores 200 paintings by the great artist, that is, about a quarter of his heritage.
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the world's largest collection of works by the mad genius
Museum address: st. Museumplein 6. Working hours: 09:00 - 19:00 (Sunday - Thursday), 09:00 - 21:00 (Friday, Saturday). Ticket price: 18 euros (adult), children under 17 years old - free of charge.
What to see if you come with a child
Amsterdam is a fairly child-friendly city, so even when traveling with the whole family, tourists have places to go. As usual in Amsterdam, museums are of the greatest interest here, but in this case, they are aimed at children.
Nemo Museum
The Nemo Museum is the largest child-oriented science museum in Holland, so it will delight the curious child. Moreover, it is educational in nature and is designed to arouse interest in science and technology from an early age. The museum was opened in 1997, and the Italian architect R. Piano became the author of its bright and unusual ship-shaped building.
The Nemo Museum is the largest children-friendly science museum in Holland.
Nemo is an interactive museum, so you can and should touch its exhibits with your hands - after all, they “come to life” only after being touched. The museum does not have a single scientific direction; children who come to the museum get acquainted with a wide range of sciences: from mechanics and chemistry to biomedicine and information technology.
Museum address: st. Oosterdok, 2. Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:30, closed on Mondays, but during school holidays the museum is open on this day. Ticket price: 16.5 euros.
Horror Museum Amsterdam Dungeon
Of course, not every child can be brought to the Museum of Horrors, but for teenagers there will be nothing to worry about, even more likely they will be delighted with such a museum, because who at that age does not like horror movies.
The elevator brings visitors to the lowest floor, after which the group, passing by the rooms, must go upstairs
Amsterdam Dungeon is 5 underground floors, each of which makes you shudder. The elevator brings visitors to the lowest floor, after which the group, passing by the rooms, must go upstairs. Along the way, frightening and exciting scenes await visitors: from the torture chamber of the Inquisition and the hold of a pirate ship to a street that has become extinct from the plague and a tavern with a crazy mistress. Well, at the very exit from the museum in a small shop you can buy souvenirs, whose theme is directly related to the focus of the museum.
Object address: st. Rokin 78. Working hours: 11:00 - 18:00 (Sunday - Thursday), 11:00 - 19:00 (Friday, Saturday). Ticket price: 19 euros (online) or 23 euros (at the museum box office).
Climate of Amsterdam
The climate of Amsterdam, due to the influence of the sea, is distinguished by mild winters and cool summers, rather strong sea winds that bring frequent rains. Therefore, when traveling to Amsterdam, it is absolutely necessary to warm up and arm yourself with an umbrella. In the winter season, it is better to stock up on a warm windproof jacket and waterproof shoes, as even with a positive temperature, but with a strong wind, it will be noticeably cold. In many ways, the same applies to spring and autumn. Summers in Amsterdam are quite cool and rainy, so a light jacket and an umbrella will also come in handy. An alternative to them can be a raincoat, which is often worn by the Dutch themselves.
How long does it take to see the city
Amsterdam is not the city of one or two bright sights that overshadow everything else. Perhaps the monuments and interesting places of the city cannot be called true masterpieces, but here their density is surprisingly high. Well, perhaps, the main reason why tourists come here is to feel the unique atmosphere of this city, which is incomparable with any other on the planet.
Amsterdam is a city of free morals
Another way to save money, including on public transport, is to purchase the I amsterdam city card, which not only allows you to ride the same GVB transport for free, but also gives discounts to numerous museums in the city. The cost of such a card is slightly higher: for 24 hours - 59 euros, for 48 - 74 euros, for 72 hours - 87 euros, for 96 hours - 98 euros.
An alternative to the Amsterdam Travel Ticket may well be a bicycle, because Amsterdam is considered the "Mecca" of this two-wheeled transport. Renting will cost only 10 euros per day - the cost of 2-3 trips by public transport.
Amsterdam is a city of rather free morals, which manifested itself in coffee shops known far beyond the borders of the country and, of course, in the Red Light District. However, if you avoid establishments selling soft drugs and a tiny quarter, then Amsterdam will seem quite decent and even somewhat puritanical city. So do not expect licentiousness and debauchery from Amsterdam and be afraid to go here or bring children.
A trip to Amsterdam is suitable for almost any tourist: lovers of architecture and painting, fans of idyllic rural landscapes and those who prefer narrow stone streets, adhering to free morals and guardians of strict morals. Every traveler who comes here can find in this city something of his own, the closest to him.
Many tourists come to the capital of the Netherlands for a short period of time. I would like not to miss the opportunity to get to know the city. But what to see in Amsterdam in 3 days and where to go? If you plan your route correctly, you can see many interesting places in such a period of time. So that you do not waste time on this, we have already prepared a guide. Everything has been thought of!
A nice bonus only for our readers - a discount coupon when paying for tours on the site until August 31:
- AF500guruturizma - promo code for 500 rubles for tours from 40,000 rubles
- AFTA2000Guru - promo code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Thailand from 100,000 rubles.
And you will find many more advantageous offers from all tour operators on the website. Compare, choose and book tours at the best prices!
The day of arrival in the capital of the Netherlands usually turns out to be quite troublesome. The road from the airport, check-in to a hotel takes time, and you just want to relax after a long trip. Therefore, it is especially important to make a route for walking around the city so that you spend less energy and see as much as possible. It is best to hit the road from Leiden Square. It is quite interesting in itself, there are many cafes where you can have a bite to eat, and 5 tram lines intersect here. But the main thing is that this square is like a gateway to the historical part of the city.
Leiden Square
On Leiden Square, life is in full swing almost around the clock. Street performers perform here - fakirs, jugglers, singers - you can see the whole performance. Around the square there are enough clubs and cinemas, shops and art cafes. It is here, at Bulldog Palace, that you should buy a coffee as a memento of Amsterdam. Also here are the beautiful building of the City Theater, and another theater that bears a name similar to the square, several rock clubs and a street bureau where you can buy tickets for performances.
flower market
Leiden Square is within easy reach of the Flower Market. It has huge popularity: even those who have never been to the Netherlands have heard of it. After all, its age is measured in centuries. Even in the 17th century, merchants came here in boats and sold flowers. The flower market is still "standing on the water", that is, it is placed on fixed barges. Here you can buy souvenirs at quite affordable prices - from magnets with views of the Netherlands, to T-shirts and baseball caps, buy cheese, even buy hemp seeds - they are sold legally in the country.
But the main thing that buyers come here for is, of course, flowers. Moreover, cut ones make up only a small part of the market assortment. Basically, bulbs of various varieties are sold here. And the most popular are tulips. The price of a package that includes several bulbs is 3-5 euros. Planning to take more? You will definitely get a discount.
Church De Kruytberg
This is a famous Catholic church, consecrated in honor of St. Francis Xavier. The common name "Kreuterg" is translated as "chalk mountain". At this place, there used to be a chalk merchant's house, and then there was a secret Catholic chapel in honor of Jesus Christ. At that time, Catholics in the Netherlands could only pray in secret - the Protestants were in power.
The Church of St. Francis was built in the 80s of the 19th century, the project was carried out by the architect Alfred Tepe. Today, both believers and ordinary tourists can come here. At the end of the 20th century, the church was restored - it took almost 24 years. But now you can admire the magnificent paintings and stained-glass windows, stucco and the main altar. It is so beautiful here that it is simply impossible to forget this place.
coin tower
This is one of the oldest buildings in the city. In the 15th century, Amsterdam was surrounded by reliable fortress walls, and watchtowers guarded the entrance to the city. In 1618 there was a major fire. Only part of the western tower was not damaged by the fire. Later it was tuned in the Renaissance style. They installed an elegant clock tower and a spire on top. The bells ring every quarter of an hour, and on Saturdays you can hear a professional bell ringer playing. In the 17th century, during the war with France, the Mint was evacuated to Amsterdam. He was located in the guardroom adjacent to the tower. Thus the name of the tower was born. Today this place is very popular. The tower is located at the confluence of the Singel Canal with the Amstel River.
Speuil Square and the Beguinage Courtyard
The name Spey Square comes from the word "spillway". Once in these places, the spillway was actually the southern border of the city. In the 80s of the 19th century, it was filled up and a square was laid out here. Now it is a favorite place for book lovers. Book and art fairs are regularly held here, and there are countless bookstores in the area. The statue of a street boy, installed here, is a real symbol of the inhabitants of the city, who are not accustomed to become limp under any circumstances. The old Lutheran church, the main building of the university and the unusual Helios building will also be seen by everyone who comes to Spey Square.
The main entrance to the Beguinage courtyard is also located from the side of the square. It is an arch decorated with stucco. Beguinage - that was the name in the Middle Ages of the place where women lived who did not take tonsure, but behaved almost like nuns. Beguinage in Amsterdam appeared in the 14th century. Today, there are no more runes here, but several dozen single women live. The center of the courtyard is a lawn on which stands a statue of Jesus Christ. Nearby are a Protestant church and a cemetery. And in one of the houses there is a Catholic church. Also here you can see an old wooden house, it belongs to the 16th century.
Dam Square
The name of the square is deceptive for the Russian ear. No, we are not talking about the beautiful ladies of past centuries. Dam means "dam". In the 13th century, a dam appeared here, which connected the settlements located on different banks of the Amstel River. The word "dam" in translation into Russian just means "dam". The dam expanded and strengthened, eventually turning into a square. Now there was a brisk trade, and the Fish Market became famous even outside of Amsterdam.
Of course, there are many sights to see here. For example, the Gothic Nieuwekerk church, built at the end of the 14th century. Here those who are to govern the country are crowned for power. Arouse interest among tourists and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. As well as the Royal Palace (former town hall) - a building of the 17th century. The most modern monument is the National Monument, dedicated to those who died in World War II.
Red light district
The whole world knows about this place. And a person who has visited Amsterdam will definitely be asked if he visited the Red Light District. Although the inhabitants of the country themselves do not see anything surprising and exciting in this, prostitution in Holland is officially allowed, moreover, it is inscribed in everyday life. Prostitutes are the same taxpayers. The risk of getting sick, thanks to women of easy virtue, is also minimized - all these ladies undergo regular medical examinations. On average, a lady charges a client 50 euros for a 15-minute visit, and a transsexual costs 30 euros.
Those who find themselves in the Red Light District during the day - we can recommend returning there at night - the spectacle will be much brighter. The history of the quarter is also impressive. Prostitutes rented clients here already in the 14th century. They were most popular with sailors who returned from a long voyage. For sailors, local taverns were opened. Today, as soon as it gets dark, it seems that a holiday begins in the Red Light District. Music is playing, lights are on... Girls - blondes and brunettes, whites, blacks and Asians, large and petite, thin and fat, sit on high chairs in beautifully illuminated shop windows.
Not everyone who comes to the Red Light District becomes their client. Most are just tourists who have come to stare (by the way, photographing girls is prohibited), but the ladies smile and wink at everyone without exception. When a client comes to the girl, she lowers the curtain. During the day, the Red Light District is empty, although some prostitutes continue to work. If you're lucky, you can get to the "open day". In this case, you can look into the girls' rooms just for the sake of interest, and even chat with the beauties. This is done so that people do not treat priestesses of love as second-class. Many of the girls are very pleasant companions.
Oudekerk Church
This name translates as "old church", and the Oudekerk fully deserves it. The chapel appeared here at the beginning of the 13th century, and the stone church began to be built in the 14th century. There is no older building in the city. In order for the weak soil to withstand the weight of the temple, it was repeatedly completed and rebuilt. In its final form, it took the form of a cross. In the 16th century, a Renaissance bell tower was erected, its height is 67m. The temple has a unique acoustics. There are 3 organs, the largest of them is considered the best in Europe. There is also a carillon from the 17th century. And a 15th century bell.
The walls of the temple are whitewashed, but there are stained-glass windows of the Catholic period, they were made in the 16th century. For several centuries, the temple served as a cemetery; many famous personalities rest here, for example, Saskia, the wife of Rembrandt. In the second half of the 20th century, the church was closed for renovation and reopened in 1979. Today, not only pray here. The Oudekerke hosts an international organ music festival, honorary ceremonies and even light installations.
Central station
Even those who came to Amsterdam by plane should visit the Central Station. The building, built in the 19th century according to the design of Peter Kuipers, is so beautiful that it evokes an association with an old castle. An additional effect is given to it by evening illumination. The station is a place where the paths of a variety of transport converge. Trains and electric trains, intercity buses arrive here. There is a metro station, and next to the pier where liners and ferries stop.
On one of the towers of the station you can see a clock, and on the other - a weather vane that indicates the direction of the wind. Inside the station, today is adjacent to yesterday. For example, there are ticket machines here, but there is also a piano that anyone can play. Do not forget that the people of Amsterdam are big fans of bicycles. For two-wheeled transport there is a spacious parking lot.
Church of St. Nicholas
The church is located in the ancient part of Amsterdam and has the official name "Church of St. Nicholas in the Walls", because once it was surrounded by the walls of the fortress. The church of St. Nicholas was built in the second half of the 19th century according to the project of the architect Blais. It has 3 towers and a very beautiful rose-shaped window depicting Jesus and His disciples. Also on the pediment you can see the sculpture of St. Nicholas. He has always been considered the patron saint of sailors, and in Amsterdam, a city standing on the water, he was especially revered.
Canal Cruise
It is simply impossible to visit Amsterdam and not touring its canals. Even if you stay in the capital of the Netherlands for only a few hours, you should buy such an excursion. It's inexpensive and won't tire you out at all. But there will be impressions - more than enough. Tourists have a wide choice - several hundred boats and ships ply the canals. An hour walk costs about 15-16 euros. You can also save money by buying a combined tour that includes a visit to the museum and a canal cruise.
Those who travel with a group can rent a boat that will be led by a professional captain. A two-hour trip will cost 200-250 euros. It is most convenient to start the journey from the Central Station. The boats leave every half an hour, in the high season there are queues of people who want to ride. You can travel in any weather. In rain and strong winds, boats are covered with glass roofs. Evening cruises are more entertaining. On board they offer a full dinner and wine, or a lighter option - snacks, pizza, alcoholic drinks. The cost of such a cruise is slightly higher - about 80 euros.
Active tourists who want to see as much as possible are advised to take a ticket for a water taxi. A ticket for a day costs about 27 euros. You can get off at stops, go sightseeing, then come back, get on the boat and go on. You can go on cruises even in the cold season. In winter, evening cruises are especially spectacular during the Festival of Lights.
Sex Museum
Even children are allowed into the Museum of Sex, however, accompanied by adults. From here you can bring erotic souvenirs that are sold in shops located on the territory of the museum. Also, guests will receive just a sea of different information related to erotica - from ancient times to the present day. And, of course, special attention is paid to the Red Light District. There is even a special room imitating this place. Here you can see the figure of the priestess of love, made of wax.
Nemo Museum
The museum is located next to the Central Station. With its shape, it resembles a ship that suddenly found itself on land. Such an unusual appearance was given to him by the architect Renzo Piano. The museum opened in 1997. Its name can be misleading, bringing to mind Captain Nemo from Jules Verne's novel 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Yes, and the cafe "Nautilus" is here. And yet, first and foremost, NEMO is a museum of science. And his main guests, those who are most expected here, are children. Young tourists come not only from different cities in the Netherlands, but also from other countries. It is here that they can get a visual representation of the structure of the world. Here they understand that the laws of science, combined with imagination, can work wonders.
Here you can make exciting journeys into various fields of science, and the exhibits are allowed to be taken in hand. Children are also delighted with attractions, thanks to which they learn new facts about light, sound and energy. If you wish, you can see all the places described above in one day, or you can choose something especially interesting for yourself and your companions.
2 day
The second day of your stay in the capital of the Netherlands is best devoted to museums. There really is something to see here. Visiting these museums will be interesting for both adults and children. In conclusion, it would be nice to go to the zoo. And to end the day, full of impressions, in a cozy pub with a glass of beer.
OBA City Library
The public library is located near the Central Station. It has 26 branches, so it is convenient for all residents of the city to use the funds. More than 4 million readers annually. The library is open daily until 22:00. She can be proud of a truly modern equipment. There are hundreds of places where you can work with the Internet, special places with computers for viewing digitized publications, there are places where you can listen to music files or just read.
Today, the library has a theater, a cafe, a restaurant, and conference rooms. Almost 6,000 events are held every year. The Amsterdam Library is recognized as the largest public library in Europe. And it all started very modestly. The public library opened about a hundred years ago, in 1919, in a modest building on the Keizersgracht. The modern building was completed only in 2007, and the library soon became the most visited cultural institution in the city.
And what about those whose plans do not include reading? Firstly, to see a beautiful creation of modern architecture, where, thanks to free Wi-Fi, you can explore any modern publication. Secondly, go up to the 7th floor, to the La Place cafe. Here, not only the cheapest breakfasts in the city, but also a wonderful view of Amsterdam.
Anne Frank House Museum
This museum makes a deep impression on tourists. Anna is a Jewish girl. Until 1933, her family lived in Germany. When the Nazis came to power, it became clear what awaited all Jews in the near future. The Frank family hastened to leave for Amsterdam. But, thanks to the Second World War, the Nazis came to the Netherlands. All Jews were to be sent to concentration camps. But the family did not leave the old 17th century house. There used to be a mansion here. And then housed the company that produced household appliances. One of her employees was Anna's father.
A family friend designed a secret closet. Behind him was a niche where the whole family hid during the day. When the company closed in the evenings, it was possible to leave. But still had to be very quiet so as not to attract the attention of strangers. Anna kept a diary, where she wrote down the details of the family's life, shared her fears with the diary - after all, it was not known what tomorrow would bring. So the family managed to hide for 2 years. In 1944, following a denunciation, the family was arrested and sent to a camp, where Anna died shortly before the end of the war.
Her diary was published and received a wide public response. In the 1950s, the house was about to be demolished, but public opinion prevailed. The result was the opening of the Anne Frank Museum. In front of the entrance there is a statue of a girl, next to which there are always flowers. In the museum you can see the famous diary, photographs of family members, furniture and household items of that time, pictures of Amsterdam during the Second World War. The museum is open daily.
Rijksmuseum Art Museum
The museum is located in the historical center of the city and is very popular. Usually, to get here, you have to stand in line. The museum was created with the participation of the King of Holland, Louis Bonaparte. At first he did not have a permanent place, he had to move. In the 80s of the 19th century, a separate neo-Gothic building was built for the museum. Later, in accordance with the needs, it was rebuilt and reconstructed. This could be done, for example, in order to show the public a large painting by Rembrandt "The Night Watch".
Today, the museum is so large that it is simply impossible to get around it at a time and admire all the exhibits. After all, here are collected paintings, furniture, utensils, porcelain, sculptures created by the masters of the country - starting from the 11th century. But you can see the most interesting. For example, the works of such great artists as Rembrandt, El Greco, Rubens, Van Dyck, Veronese. The doll house exhibition is also very popular. Among them there are really old ones - the 17th century. Porcelain collections and graceful models of ships also make a great impression on tourists.
Van Gogh Museum
Next to the Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum. A huge merit in the fact that such a museum appeared belongs to Johanna van Gogh, the wife of Vincent's brother. Theo and Johanna carefully kept the artist's letters - hundreds of them have accumulated. Most of them contain illustrations to the written text. Paintings and drawings were preserved with the same care. Johanna was left a widow at the age of 29. Years later, she prepared Van Gogh's letters for publication. And she passed on the originals and artwork to her son Vincent. He proposed to the city authorities to build a museum.
The building was designed by the Dutchman G. Rietveld, and in 1973 the museum was opened. Today it houses about 200 paintings by the artist. Moreover, they are placed the way Vincent van Gogh himself once conceived. The whole life of the great painter passes before the viewer. First, museum visitors see early works, still angular and imperfect. Then the paintings created in Paris, when Van Gogh discovered the work of the Impressionists. Next - Arles, in this small town Vincent wrote his masterpieces. Finally, Saint-Remy and Auvers are the last paintings. Also recreated the environment, as close as possible to the one in which Vincent van Gogh worked.
Diamond Museum
This museum appeared in the capital of the Netherlands, thanks to the company Coster Diamonds, engaged in cutting jewelry. Tourists can visit both the diamond factory and the museum at the same time (they are located in the same building). Guests will see how jewelers are engaged in cutting stones, learn a lot of new information about what diamonds are. In the museum, they will watch a film that tells how diamonds are mined and how they are cut. Guests will also be presented with exhibits acquired in various parts of the world - from South Africa to India.
You can also see works of art, for example, a copy of Van Gogh's famous painting "Starry Night", which all sparkles and shimmers with diamond brilliance. Diamond jewelry made by famous jewelers is also presented. The gift shop at the museum also sells diamonds and jewelry.
Beer 't Arendsnest
Round off a second such busy day in Amsterdam at the beer hall located at Herengracht 90. You can try 350 beers, not counting 250 seasonal beers. Moreover, products are presented only from Dutch breweries. Periodically, thematic events are held here, tastings are organized. Guests of the pub note that they have not tried such delicious beer as here. Old recipes, proven for centuries, what can I say!
There is no need to be afraid that here you will run into a crowd of people. On weekdays, the place is not crowded. You can try draft beer - buy small glasses first, if you like it - order a large mug. If you like bottled beer, you have to take the whole bottle. However, this is rarely regretted. The pub is open from 16:00 to 24:00, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 14:00 to 2:00 in the morning. Walk, so walk!
3 day
If there is an opportunity to spend one more day in the Netherlands, it is worth spending it on a trip to one of the cities or villages located nearby. There you can feel the atmosphere of the real Holland. Communication here is excellent, and you can get anywhere from the Central Station in a short time. Of course, you won’t have time to visit everywhere, so choose what you like.
Zandvoort
If you missed the sea in Amsterdam, go to Zandvoort. This is a small resort town where everything contributes to bliss and relaxation. Wide white sand beaches and the sound of waves. Zandvoort was founded at the end of the 11th century. At first it was a small village, and in the middle of the 19th century it began to develop as a resort. The name of the place literally translates as "sand ford". At the end of the 19th century, a railway was laid here, which greatly increased the number of tourists. An interesting fact is that one of the first Dutch films was filmed here. It happened in 1905.
Even if you arrive on a cloudy or rainy day, there is plenty to do in the town. There are numerous cafes and bars, shops and restaurants. You can sit with a cup of coffee almost on the beach - the glass walls will protect from bad weather. The journey by commuter train will take only half an hour.
Zaanse Schans
The windmill is a real symbol of the country. Such a mill was a breadwinner. It depended on the wind whether the grain would be ground, whether the butter would be churned. The picturesque Dutch windmills have been on the canvases of artists more than once, they have been captured in photographs, in films. Mills can be seen in different places in the Netherlands. But it is in the village of Zaanse Schans that tourists get acquainted with different types of mills. Many of them work, you can watch the process.
It is rare that anyone avoids the opportunity to go to a farm where cheese is prepared according to old recipes, and, of course, to buy such a rarity. And in the Zaanse Schans, in front of tourists, they make national shoes - klomps. They are also willingly bought as souvenirs. The open air museum can be seen at any time. But in order to get inside the mills, you need to arrive between 10 am and 5 pm, the entrance ticket costs 10 euros. The most convenient way to get from the Central Station is by bus or train.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam makes a big impression on guests. And how could it be otherwise - the second largest city in the Netherlands, the largest port, which until recently was considered the busiest in the world. Its center is built up with futuristic buildings that seem to have come from science fiction films. There are also museums in the city worth visiting. You can also admire the windmills - there are 7 of them. As you can see, the past is organically combined with the future.
Shoppers will appreciate the shopping zones. Those who need a vibrant evening life will find here dozens of clubs where you can hear all kinds of music. Some tourists come here because of the magnificent Rotterdam Zoo. And, of course, everyone, without exception, notes the special atmosphere of the city - more multinational than all other cities in the Netherlands.
Rotterdam is an old city. It was founded in the 13th century on the Rotta River, where there was already a dam. These 2 words merged and gave the city its name. The location of Rotterdam was very advantageous, and it quickly became a major trading city. In the 16th century, it survived the sack by the Spaniards, but successfully revived. And in the 17th century a new port was built here. The wars also left their mark on Rotterdam. During the First World War, special services bases were located here. And during the Second World War, the city was bombed.
What is interesting to see in Rotterdam:
- Kijk-Kubus are "cubic houses" designed by P. Blom.
- De Markthal is a market where residential apartments are located. The painting on the walls and ceiling deserves special attention.
- De Verwoeste Stad - "The Ruined City", a memorial dedicated to the Second World War.
- Erasmus Bridge - the length of this bridge connecting the northern and southern parts of Rotterdam is 800 m. The spectacular bridge has become a symbol of the city.
- Rotterdam Tower - you can climb to the observation deck (100m) to see the panorama of the city. And the total height of the tower is 185 m.
- De Brug is a very interesting office that is worth seeing. It was built in the form of a bridge over the factory.
- The White House of Rotterdam is the first skyscraper built in Europe. The building was erected at the end of the 19th century, its height is 45 m.
- Laurenskerk Church - not so many medieval sights have survived in Rotterdam. This temple is one of them.
The Hague - Delft
The Hague is the residence of the Queen. This is where the government sits. It is also the legal capital of the world. After all, this is where the International Court of Justice is located. At first glance, it becomes clear that The Hague is an aristocratic city that sacredly honors its traditions. As in the old days, only low houses stand here, each of them is built with great taste. Not a single high-rise building will disturb the appearance of the city. The streets here are like in the Middle Ages - narrow. Very green - there are three dozen parks. Tourists are sure to take pictures of the Peace Palace, because it resembles a fairy-tale castle. They stop at the Parliament, visit the Mauritshaus Museum of Painting, which displays paintings by Rubens, Rembrandt and other great artists.
You can continue your walk to the suburb of The Hague, Scheveningen, which overlooks the sea. Delft is another interesting town. It is on the way from Rotterdam to The Hague. The great painter Vermeer was born here. Quiet streets, old houses - one gets the impression that the yard is still in the 17th century. And the local market appeared even earlier - in the 14th century. Its main products are fresh seafood and flowers. In local shops it is worth asking the price of porcelain. After all, Delft is the capital of Dutch porcelain.
Volendam - Edam - Marken
The picturesque fishing village of Volendam has long been loved by artists, performers and people of other creative professions. Here you can visualize how fishermen lived in the 19th century. But first you need to say a few words about the town of Edam, which is located in the neighborhood. After all, originally Volendam was the harbor of Edam. The town was founded in the 13th century. Ships were built here for several centuries. But then the main occupation of the inhabitants was the production of cheese. Today, about 7 thousand people live in Edam. On Wednesdays there are cheese fairs. But the delicious cheese bearing the same name as the city can be bought at any time.
About 3 times more people live in Volendam than in Edam. But gastronomic tourism is also popular here. People come here for the most tender herring, smoked eels, fresh oysters. All this is sold here literally for a penny. Almost always, fresh fish can be bought from boats - from fishermen who have just returned from fishing. Tourists also buy small fish for feeding birds. This is a kind of local attraction. Ducks and cormorants are ready to grab treats right from the hands.
The most crowded and noisy place is the Volendam embankment. It is slightly higher than the rest of the village, as it is located on a dam that protects the city from the sea. Another feature can be noted here - the absence of curtains on the windows. This is also a tradition. The wives of the fishermen who went to sea did not draw the curtains - they say, we have nothing to hide, we are faithful to our husbands. The custom took root. Attractions are the Historical Museum, the 19th century St. Vincent's Church and Art Gallery, as well as the bronze figures of people from the past that can be seen on the streets.
It is worth visiting the village of Marken, located on the island. You can get to it by ferry or bus (paved highway). Less than 2 thousand people live in the village, but it looks very colorful. Previously, Marken was part of the land, but in the 13th century, after a flood, it turned into an island. So the old days come alive here. Houses on stilts, well-groomed courtyards, dishes in cafes - you will not try these anywhere else ...
To visit all these places, it is most convenient to purchase a WaterLand ticket - a magnetic card that costs 10 euros. It makes it possible to travel without restrictions along the route - from Amsterdam to Volendam, Edam and Marken.
Kinderdijk
To visit this famous windmill park, located in the small village of Kinderdijk, you need to drive 2.5-3 hours from Amsterdam. First to Rotterdam, and then by ship, or first by tram, and then by bus. But the spectacle is worth it - here you will see 19 windmills that were built in the 18th century. The name of the village "children's dam" is associated with a legend, when after the flood only a cradle with a child survived on this place. And so many mills were built here in order to hold water, and not allow two local rivers to flood the village.
Mills stand on the banks of the canal - an unforgettable sight. One of them is available for inspection from the inside. And to go around the entire park, you can rent a bike. In winter, it is also worth coming here to admire the skaters who glide on the ice of the canal. A spectacle like from an old book. The park of mills is under the protection of UNESCO.
Texel Island
The film "Knocking on Heaven's Door" received wide recognition in Russia. How his heroes wanted to see the sea! Filmed on the island of Texel. Or Tesla, as the Dutch themselves call it. The large island contains 7 towns and several dozen villages. And it is also a barrier between the North Sea and the Wadden Sea. Today it houses a nature reserve where birds live. The economy of the island is directly dependent on tourism. Guests inspect the territory, going on foot trips, order cycling or horseback riding. You can get to the island by ferry, which departs from the port of Den Helder.
The island is also famous for the fact that a large catamaran regatta takes place here. The Maritime Museum is also located here, where you can see things raised from sunken ships. You can also climb the old lighthouse and enjoy the view. And in October there is a 10-day Blues Festival.
Must-Try Foods
There is such a thing as "gastronomic tourism". But whatever the purpose of your trip to this amazing country, there are things that you must definitely try in the Netherlands. Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan city, and many dishes have been around since the colonial era. Now in the capital you can buy themed tours. One of them is dedicated to the pubs of Amsterdam, and the other is called the "Gastronomic Bike Tour". But not everyone is ready to ride an iron horse, and besides beer, you need to try something else more substantial. It remains to embark on an independent journey through cafes and restaurants. What do we order?
Kebabs, which here, as in Russia, are made from pork, beef or even chicken. They are only served with peanut sauce (a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter and chili sauce).
Bami Goreng is actually an Indonesian dish. But the Dutch loved it so much that now it is served in every restaurant. These are noodles with pieces of meat, beans and soy sprouts.
Dessert Oliebollen - sweet donuts are most popular in winter - traditionally served at Christmas. But at other times of the year they may also appear on sale. Raisins are included in the ingredients of donuts, and those with more apple slices will be especially tasty.
Boerenkool Stamppot - mashed potatoes are familiar to Russians. And the Dutch mix it with finely chopped kale. Unusual, tasty and very useful. You can order this dish as an appetizer, or as a side dish for meat or fish.
Erwtensoep - pea soup. In fact, soups are not in honor of the Dutch. In restaurants, you will hardly see “national soups” except for pea soup. Its preparation is treated with great care, the first course is served in portioned pots. The composition includes chopped smoked sausage, and the soup itself is so thick that a spoon stands in it.
Hollandse Nieuwe is the same herring that the royal family eats. It is she who is presented with the first catch of the new year. Herring is salted in special barrels, and it turns out just incredibly tasty. It's impossible to resist.
Kibbeling are deep fried fish pieces. This dish can be tasted not only in cafes and restaurants, but also in street tents. Pieces of white fish in dough are served with garlic sauce.
Rookworst - but this is already meat. Specifically, smoked sausages. The Dutch love them very much. They add them to soups, serve them with beer, put them on bread and make sandwiches, and, of course, they eat them as an independent dish. The recipe for their manufacture is not so simple - after all, sausages include 3 types of meat. Tourists like this dish so much that they buy packaged sausages and take them home as souvenirs.
Drop - lollipops, and suddenly salty? Yes, yes, and you should definitely try them. Licorice lozenges, although they have an unusual taste, are very good, and, by the way, are useful during a cold.
Amsterdam is very different, it cannot be described in a few words. Every tourist comes here for something of his own, and it is precisely this “own” that he finds. Contrary to the popular belief of many foreigners, the city boasts not only world-famous coffee shops and the Red Light District. Such great masters of the brush as Van Gogh and Rembrandt, as well as other representatives of the Flemish school of painting, one of the best in Europe, lived and worked here.
Moreover, Amsterdam is the famous floating flower market "Blumenmarkt", luxurious quarters covered with a network of canals, cheerful Dutch on bicycles in any weather and a completely unique atmosphere of freedom. True, very often freedom crosses the border of permissiveness, but that's exactly what it is - Amsterdam.
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What to see and where to go in Amsterdam?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walking. Photos and a short description.
A huge art museum that stretches along the embankment of one of the canals for a whole block. The expositions of the museum tell about the history of art in the Netherlands. The most important place is given to painting. Most of the museum collection consists of paintings that were created on the territory of Flanders (Southern Netherlands) and Northern Netherlands. Paintings for the Rijksmuseum began to be collected in the 19th century.
National flower park near Amsterdam. Every year this amazing place opens for just a couple of months - for the flowering period. Hundreds of varieties of tulips, daffodils, lilies, hyacinths, rhododendrons and other types of flowers grow here. The alleys of the park are decorated in all possible shades. For many tourists, Keukenhof resembles a "paradise", where you don't want to leave at all.
The total length of the canal network within the city is approximately 75 km, with a total of 165 waterways. Only small pleasure boats and private boats go through them. More than 1500 bridges of various sizes connect the canals to each other. The very first channel was dug in the middle of the 15th century and used as a city ditch. Now it is one of the main canals of the city called Singel.
This severe Romanesque fortress of the 13th century has survived to this day almost in its original form. The thing is that in the Middle Ages it was used as a customs post, and not as a military fortress, so it was never besieged. There is a legend about the ghost of Count Floris V (one of the former owners of the castle), who still roams the dark corridors. The Count has been betrayed and killed by his own vassals, and his spirit is not at peace.
The official residence of the royal dynasty of the Netherlands, where official events are held: ascension to the throne, weddings, receptions of foreign delegations. The palace was erected in the 17th century for the needs of the city hall and for court sessions, but was later transferred to the jurisdiction of the monarchs. The structure rests on the foundation, which in turn is reinforced on 13660 piles.
The central square of Amsterdam, located on the dam of the XIII century. It is known that a third of the area of the Netherlands is below sea level. For the construction of residential buildings, streets and laying communications, the Dutch hundreds of years ago built dams and drove piles into fragile soil. "Dam" means "dam" in Dutch. Over time, the square became the commercial center of Amsterdam; for a long time, the stock exchange functioned here.
A branch of the famous wax exhibition, located in Amsterdam (there are 19 branches all over the world). Madame Tussauds has gained popularity in all corners of the Earth. Here you can admire the exact copies of real and fairy-tale characters, made with precision and great skill. Madame Tussauds herself was an extraordinary and restless person. She devoted her entire life to collections.
A museum that tells about the work and life of one of the brightest representatives of Dutch painting. In addition to the works of the maestro Van Gogh himself, paintings by Monet, Gauguin, Picasso, Seurat are exhibited here. The path of the artist was short, difficult, but very productive - he began to paint after 30 years and created more than 800 paintings, until he shot himself at the age of 37. The museum was organized in 1973.
The museum is organized in a house on Jodenbreestraat, where Rembrandt lived for some time. The collection includes 260 engravings by the master, paintings by his students, as well as those artists who were influenced by the work of Rembrandt. The museum was opened in 1911 in the presence of the reigning queen. The exhibits appeared due to gifts from private collectors and buying works at auctions.
The Dutch have always been considered skillful and courageous sailors. Their life has been connected with the sea since the first settlements in the Netherlands. The history of the development of navigation and shipbuilding can be found in the special Museum of Shipping, which exhibits collections of maps, ship gear and tools. Before the opening of the museum, the building housed the Admiralty of Amsterdam.
A modern interactive museum, where the achievements of modern technologies are widely used. It was created in 1997 to show people the relationship between art, science and nature. Here complex physical phenomena are presented in an accessible form. Visitors are allowed to conduct experiments on their own, to experiment in order to understand the essence of a particular phenomenon.
Gallery with an impressive collection of contemporary art. The first building (the old one) was built in 1895. The status of the State Museum of Modern Art was obtained in 1938. After 1973, part of the collection was moved to a new building. In the gallery you can admire the paintings of the Cubists, Fauvists, Expressionists and Impressionists. 29 paintings by K. Malevich are stored here.
One of the oldest diamond cutting factories, established in the middle of the 19th century. There is a museum with it, where you can get acquainted with the precious exhibits. Items of curiosity include diamond skulls by British craftsman Damien Hirst, a $1 million gold tennis racket, a replica of Van Gogh's "Starry Night" adorned with several hundred diamonds, and the queen's crown.
The memorial house of the Jewish family Frank, who suffered from the Nazis during the Second World War. This is an old mansion of the 17th century, where Otto Frank, who emigrated from Germany, found temporary shelter. Anna was his daughter. All the time that the family was hiding in the house, the girl kept a diary. The records were published in 1947, after which the public became interested in this place.
The name of the temple is deceptive (translated from the Dutch "niivekerk" means "new church"), since this is a building of the XIV-XV centuries. Representatives of the ruling family of Nasau-Oransky, as well as famous military men, cultural figures and politicians are buried under the vaults of the church. The structure is crowned with a spire over 100 meters high. It was struck by lightning twice, causing a fire to start and damage to the temple.
The oldest church in the city of the beginning of the XIV century (“old church” in Dutch). Over the centuries of its existence, the church has been raided by robbers and religious fanatics more than once, but the original stained-glass windows, wall paintings and ceiling have come down to us. At the end of the XVI century. Protestants took the church for themselves and began to conduct services according to their rite. Nowadays, organ concerts are regularly held on the territory, where an antique organ from 1658 sounds.
Protestant church of the 17th century. It is famous for the fact that Rembrandt was buried here in a common grave for beggars. The tower of the bell tower is decorated with a stone copy of the crown of Emperor Maximilian I (the same crown is depicted on the coat of arms of the Netherlands). It is believed that the ruler allowed his crown to be placed on the spire in gratitude for a cash loan given to him by local bankers.
Saint Nicholas is the patron saint of the capital of the Netherlands. It also protects all sailors, merchants, travelers and fishermen. It was in honor of this saint that a Catholic church was erected, which later became the decoration of Amsterdam. Unlike numerous Protestant churches with more austere architecture and interiors, the Church of St. Nicholas looks more ornate.
The former city gate of the 15th century, which in the past housed the town hall, museum, theater and depot. From the 17th to the 19th centuries the city weight chamber worked here, in which the reference weight of goods was determined. For Amsterdam, this institution played an important role, since by that time the city was already a major center of European trade. Representative offices of various professional guilds were located on the upper floors.
The structure, preserved after the fire at the city gates of Regulirscourt in the early 17th century. As a result of the restoration, 4 clock faces were reinforced on the facade and an octagonal spire appeared on the top. The tower houses a corillon (a system of bells that acts like a single musical instrument) of 38 bells. The bell rings once a week on Saturdays. At this time, you can hear a real "concert".
The Art Nouveau building, which at the beginning of the 20th century served as an exchange, and today hosts various meetings and conferences. The architecture of the Berlage exchange served as a model for other buildings erected in a similar manner. Its creator Hendrik Petrus Berlage is the creator of the original architectural style. He brought national elements and his author's conceptual vision to traditional modern.
The home stadium of the Dutch football club Ajax. The arena was opened in 1996. More than 140 million euros were spent on the work. At the time of construction, this stadium was considered the most progressive in the world, as it had a retractable roof. The Amsterdam Arena is also used for concerts, during which about 70 thousand spectators fit in the stands. It also hosts an annual electronic music festival.
Military defensive line, consisting of 45 forts and many hydraulic structures. It was erected at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries to protect Amsterdam from a military threat. If the launchers were activated, then within an hour and a half the lowlands around the city could quickly fill with water. In 1996, the defensive line was included in the UNESCO heritage list.
The zoo, founded at the beginning of the 19th century, is considered one of the best in Europe. To date, it contains several thousand animals. On a vast territory there is a botanical garden, aquariums, a museum of geology, a planetarium. Most of the animals live in open enclosures, which are separated from visitors by moats (that is, the most natural living conditions are created for them).
Landscaped green area, suitable for recreation, walking, cycling and picnics. There is a film museum and a summer theater on the territory of the park. The Vondelpark is open 24/7 and admission is free for all. Locals love this place for its silence, tranquility and the opportunity to isolate themselves from the hustle and bustle of noisy and crowded Amsterdam at least for a while.
An open-air museum-exposition, where a typical Dutch landscape is recreated - mills, village houses, a farm, craft workshops, where they still work using old technologies. From all over the country, 30 types of real Dutch houses were transported here. In the village of Zaanse Schans there are real inhabitants who are in the constant focus of attention of numerous tourists.
Such an attraction is only in Holland. The market operates on one of the main Singel canals. Its history began in the 17th century, when merchants from boats began to offer passers-by to buy flowers. Now the barges are moored to the shore and are no longer sailing anywhere, but the flower fair continues to be called "floating". Here you can buy any flowers, tulip bulbs, seeds and souvenirs.
A small "flea market" next to the city hall, where they sell all kinds of rarities. Here you can find original clothes, African jewelry, products of young unknown designers, books and souvenirs. Regular customers of the market are collectors, directors, costume designers, as well as numerous "freaks" in search of something as outrageous as possible.
Light drugs are legal in the Netherlands and there are even special places where you can use them - these are world-famous coffeeshops. A considerable part of tourists tends to Amsterdam precisely for the sake of going to such establishments. They offer hashish, marijuana and other drugs, but alcohol is prohibited. There are several hundred coffeeshops in Amsterdam, and there are enough customers for everyone.
A quarter inhabited by "priestesses of love" who live and work here absolutely legally. Moreover, they pay decent taxes to the city treasury. Prostitution in Holland has been legalized for a long time, the local prostitutes have a trade union and a powerful system of social guarantees. There are countless sex shops, erotic shows and museums in the Red Light District.
After searching the Internet for guides around Amsterdam, writing to some ... and making sure that my efforts were in vain, I went with my son to independently comprehend Amsterdam, its history, heritage, pearls of architecture and the pride of the Dutch.
Therefore, I offer you a program for a 2-day trip to Amsterdam to the maximum!
The city card "I am Amsredam" will help you make your trip enjoyable. It can be bought online and received on tour. agencies in the city center.
If you have this card in your pocket for 2 days = for 65 euros, consider that you have outwitted the royal couple themselves! This card will give you free entry to many museums, galleries, cruises and even public transport in the city center.
Day 1:
From the Amsterdam Central train station, cross the station square and take a 1-hour canal cruise in Amsterdam. There are several companies (they are all listed on the map). But we chose the Lovers Canal Cruise (note: only one canal cruise per card!)
And they didn't regret it. Comments in different languages, including Russian and a good route. The canals are the pride, the national treasure of Amsterdam and they are also protected by UNESCO! It is from the canals that I recommend starting your acquaintance with the city. Amsterdam is: 165 channels, 75 museums, more than 1500 bridges and about 90 islands...Impressive, right?!
The cruise starts and ends at the same place.
Then - go on a "free float" in the old city, 16-17 centuries.
Map of the city from the 16th century.
The old town will treat you to fragrant cheeses and ornate Renaissance architecture. All the most interesting - on the "assignments". Therefore, if you go inland opposite the railway station and “get lost” a little in the area of streets near Dam Square, you won’t regret it.
Just make sure to get to the Rembrandt House Museum (open until 18.00). There will be a pleasant end to the day with the pride of the Dutch master. D om museum. There he lived from 1639-1658. This is the restored apartment of the great artist, where some of his paintings and etchings are now located. The building was restored and opened as a museum by order of Queen Wilhelmina in 1911. Address: Jodenbreestraat 4, Amsterdam - www.rembrandthuis.nl
Still, of course, I would recommend that you go to the oldest temple in Amsterdam - Oude Kirk - a pleasant discovery (if you manage to bypass the red lantern quarter that goes around this temple ...). The Old Church (1370), the largest and oldest. A belfry with 47 bells was added in 1565. This church was originally Catholic, but in 1578 it passed to the Protestant Calvinists; they devastated it, removing all the statues, decorations and 18 altars. Inside it is empty... Thank God that the choirs were left alone.
Day 2
The Van Gogh Museum contains 200 paintings by the artist, about 500 drawings + letters. The museum leaves a sunny, harmonious feeling.
After viewing Van Gogh's masterpieces and having lunch in an excellent gallery cafe, I recommend, as we did - take a tram from the railway station to the outback, to a real, old, functioning mill and a tender herring (such that it melts in your mouth).
Tram number 2 from the terminal from the railway station to the other terminal: Neiuw Sloten (from the stop Oudenaardeplantensin, follow the signs for about 8 minutes on foot). But the path is beautiful: crossing the canals, you will still see the provincial Holland (Netherlands).
The Cooperage Museum (where barrels were made) is located inside the mill. Barrels were used to store, pack and transport various products such as cheese, fish, beer, oil, soap. Currently, barrels are still used for wine, whiskey and cognac. There, in a small museum curious. Very hospitable museum staff!
Mill Sloten ensures the conservation of the water level for the surrounding low-lying lands; it has tiers and was restored in 1847 as an octahedron. The windmill pumps water out of the polder through three exits at different levels. Here you will receive live information about how a person at that time tried to subdue water, to keep water at the right level. It is here that you will learn the secrets of the appearance, the need for canals in Amsterdam. The mill is located in the Amsterdam Nieuw-West area, which lies 2 meters below sea level, and it maintains the desired water level. When the water level rises during heavy rainfall, the excess water is pumped by means of a mill into a bypass channel.
The tour there is free according to the map, with a film in Russian. The film will tell you how Rembrandt was associated with this village, why he was here looking for and found his happiness.
Here it is, Amsterdam - a city on the Amstel River and the dam "dam" - "dam".
Two days is the maximum! There are, of course, places associated with Peter I. But this is another two-day trip!!
